best paid state for nursing

I am a new grad. I have a list of states that I am considering going to, but I need to find out what the salary ranges are especially for a new grad. I have Hawaii, maryland, newyork, georgia, california and nevada on my mind so far. Is there somewhere that ranks states according to salary for nursing and standard of living. I would like to do a comparison.

From your post, it sounds like being a travel nurse would suit you. Have you ever considered doing that?

Jul 9, '04

I just read your post and www.salary.com had the info that you want. You can be even more specific and compare by cities and the national average for all jobs including some nursing specialities. There is also a cost of living calculator so that you won't make the mistake of accepting the place with the highest pay but also the highest cost of living. Travel nursing does sound good, but since you're a new grad you need a good orientation program first.

Jul 9, '04

Quote from lyv33

From your post, it sounds like being a travel nurse would suit you. Have you ever considered doing that?

Travel nurse for a new grad: no way, they surely should get their head examined. You are expected to be able to function without any orientation, just jump in and function.

Jul 9, '04

I have heard that Nevada is the best. Good jobs and cheaper housing than most places.

Jul 9, '04

And some states do not have income tax. Texas and Nevada are two.

You could google to find the others.

I did get an email from a recruiting agency. They were offering about $80,000 for travelers.

Jul 12, '04

Quote from chris_at_lucas

And some states do not have income tax. Texas and Nevada are two.

You could google to find the others.

I did get an email from a recruiting agency. They were offering about $80,000 for travelers.

How do you get to know what states are income tax free? Can you tell me which states are compact states? I have been traveling for 4 yrs and would like to go to Hawaii sometime. $80,000 sure would help my finaces!!!!

Last edit by jesl on Jul 12, '04
: Reason: Additional comment.

Jul 12, '04

Quote from jesl

How do you get to know what states are income tax free? Can you tell me which states are compact states? I have been traveling for 4 yrs and would like to go to Hawaii sometime. $80,000 sure would help my finaces!!!!

Does anyone out htere travel?

Jul 12, '04

Travel to Hawaii and make extra money? I think not! The cost of living is so high there that you will soon find out that the income pays for your living expenses, and not much more. Food, gas, and everything else are very expensive. Color me...been there, done that!

Jul 14, '04

Quote from jesl

How do you get to know what states are income tax free?

I just googled for the info in a moment of pique when I thought I might like to dump my current situation in favor of a geographic cure.....

Seven states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wyoming. Two others, New Hampshire and Tennessee, tax only dividend and interest income. This came from http://www.govspot.com/know/incometax.htm

I am a new grad. I have a list of states that I am considering going to, but I need to find out what the salary ranges are especially for a new grad. I have Hawaii, maryland, newyork, georgia, california and nevada on my mind so far. Is there somewhere that ranks states according to salary for nursing and standard of living. I would like to do a comparison.

The state of Nevada is wonderful because there is no state income tax...

Jul 14, '04

Quote from Blackcat99

I have heard that Nevada is the best. Good jobs and cheaper housing than most places.